Kavanagh QC is a British television series made by Central Television for ITV between 3 January 1995 and 25 April 2001. All five series are available on DVD in both Region 1 and Region 2.

The series starred John Thaw as barrister James Kavanagh QC, who comes from a working-class upbringing in Bolton, Greater Manchester. Although having been alluded to in Series 1 Episode 1, this is only revealed in later episodes as his parents' health deteriorates and through an exchange with a colleague who presumed that Kavanagh was actually a Yorkshireman. Plus, on one occasion Kavanagh dashes off to catch Bolton Wanderers play in a televised football match. The series deals with his battles in the courtroom as well as his domestic dramas which include the death of his devoted and affectionate wife. Later he begins dating a fellow barrister.

In court, Kavanagh is usually seen to be defending a client who seems likely to be convicted until a twist in the case occurs, but occasionally Kavanagh is seen in a prosecuting role. The main plot often features Kavanagh confronting cases with a subtext of racism, sexism or other prejudice. In sub-plots comedy came from the pomposity and self-absorption of Jeremy, a posh barrister in chambers. Kavanagh will not stand for injustice and is never bullied by threats or bribes from those whom he is up against in the courtroom.

BRIEFS TROOPING GAILY

Kavanagh defends a young woman accused of killing her dentist husband who insists from the start that she is guilty because, after repeated violence from him, she finally could take no more.

BEARING WITNESS

Kavanagh represents a Jehovah's Witness mother when a hospital wants her young son to have a blood transfusion. The hospital wins its action but when the boy dies and his father brings an action for manslaughter against his estranged wife, Kavanagh is called as a witness.